ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
DinBUTYL PHTHALATE (C6H4(C00C4H9)2)
SYNONYMS
Dibutyl phthalate.
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless oily liquid with a faint odour. INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces acid fumes. Dibutyl phthalate is incompatible
with liquid chlorine with which it reacts explosively. It can
also react with oxidising materials.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is moderately toxic when ingested causing
gastrointestinal tract disturbances. It is an eye irritant and
can be harmful if the liquid is inhaled when it is used as a
spray. Damage to the respiratory system can occur if spray
droplets are inhaled and especially at elevated temperatures. It
reacts explosively with liquid chlorine.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Avoid inhalation if used in a spray.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from heat.
Keep away from oxidising materials.
Keep away from chlorine.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid eye contact and if using as a
spray wear a respirator. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown,
rubber gloves, safety goggles as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin no reaction, wash the affected area with water until all
evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15
minutes).
Eyes immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep
warm and allow to rest. If respiratory distress continues seek
medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth with water and seek immediate
medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat and incompatible
substances.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, face shield and laboratory coat. Have an all
purpose canister respirator available.
SPILLS:
A gas leak: keep the concentration of the gas below the
explosive mixture range by forced ventilation. Remove the tank
to an open area and allow dissipation to the atmosphere. Attempt
to cap the valve outlet and return the tank to the supplier.
A liquid: absorb on paper. Evaporate in an iron pan in a flame
proof fume hood then burn the paper.
A solid: sweep on to paper and place in an iron pan in a fume
hood. Burn the paper and compound.
PACKAGE LOTS:
A gas leak: pipe the gas into an incinerator or lower into a pit
and allow to burn.
A liquid: atomise into an incinerator. Combustion may be
improved by mixing with a more flammable solvent.
A solid: make up packages in paper or other flammable material.
Burn in the incinerator. Or the solid may be dissolved in a
flammable solvent and sprayed into a fire chamber.
ENVIRONMENT:
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